Former Manchester United defender Phil Jones made his Hong Kong coaching debut this week, leading a special training session for local youth players as part of the Red Devils' U16 tour in the city.
The 32-year-old, now transitioning into coaching while pursuing his professional licenses, put both Manchester United and Hong Kong U16 players through their paces under the scorching sun at the Jockey Club HKFA Football Training Centre oni Wednesday morning.
Drenched in sweat after two intense hours of mixed training drills, Jones praised the dedication shown by players from both squads.
The 2013 Premier League winner said the young local players have fantastic physical attributes, singling out several players for special mention.
"I've been really impressed by their work ethic - the upcoming friendly should be a great contest,” he said.
The training session saw players from both teams combine for technical exercises, including passing and finishing drills, with Jones actively demonstrating the techniques.
His hands-on approach left an impression on Hong Kong U16 defender Jay Marc Chan.
"He's got so much experience and gives really specific feedback. The gap between us [and the Manchester United U16 squad] isn't unbridgeable - we'll focus on matching them technically."
Jones drew from his own breakthrough experience to inspire the youngsters, recalling his nerve-wracking Premier League debut under Sam Allardyce at Blackburn Rovers.
"Big Sam told me, 'Nobody knows who you are or cares how you play - just go out there and enjoy it.' That advice changed everything for me," he shared, urging players to back their abilities.
The Manchester United U16 squad will play two friendlies during their Hong Kong visit - against a Hong Kong Premier Youth League Select on August 15 and the Hong Kong U16 representative team on August 17 at Mong Kok Stadium.
Organized through the Jockey Club Youth Football Development program, the JC Youth Football Academy Summit provides rare exposure for Hong Kong's young talents to elite European academy standards.
Marco Lam (marco.lam@singtaonewscorp.com)